22-04-2025
Wicklow RNLI launched after yacht suffers difficulty in Irish Sea
The alarm was raised at 8.50pm when the all-weather lifeboat RNLB Bridie O'Shea slipped its moorings.
The volunteer lifeboat crew, under the command of coxswain Nicky Keogh, located the vessel approximately 20 minutes after launching in a position four miles south of Wicklow Harbour. Conditions on scene were calm wind, with calm seas and good visibility.
Mechanical issues with the yacht had caused its engines to fail. Once on scene, the volunteer crew assessed the situation. Given the fact that the yacht was unable to make safe progress without any wind and without any means of propulsion, a decision was made to establish a tow. The yacht was towed by the lifeboat to the nearest safe location which was Wicklow Harbour.
The vessel was secured alongside a short time later and all three casualties were assessed as being ok with no further attention required.
Speaking after the callout Deputy LPO Connie O'Gara said: 'This was a quick response by the crew and that along with their training helped bring three people safely ashore and we wish them well.
"As we approach summer, we would like to remind people planning a trip at sea to ensure they have a suitable means of communication to be able to call for help should the need arise. Let someone know where you are going and when you are due back and if you get into trouble or see anyone in difficulty, dial 112 or 999 and ask for the Coast Guard.'
